I don't want to interrupt the flow of this thread, so I'm not seeking a debate here. But others of you have made short comments regarding the Texas voting video, so (since I am a Texan and an American)....
I can't drive to the polls to vote, but I can vote absentee, and my vote is not a matter of public record, as is the vote of any legislator. That's a notable difference. Just to be clear, these legislators are not voting more than once for themselves, and they are not voting against the wishes of the people who are not there. So it is still one vote for each representative. I don't know where the "missing" legislators in this video are--granted, they may very well be out playing golf or something, but hopefully they are meeting with constituents or doing something else that pertains to their jobs. Frankly, I doubt that all of them are, but I can only hope. Furthermore, I doubt seriously that it is only in Texas where this happens. The rule which was cited in the video allows for disciplinary action as deemed appropriate by the House, so the fact that there has been no action taken against any of the people voting on behalf of others is not exactly contrary to those rules.
Yes, it would look better if all the reps were at their desks. But maybe some are out campaigning for keeping a children's hospital running or something. We don't know where they are, but I'll bet that if we looked into it, we'd find at least some of them are actually working. Like I say, that is the hope, anyway. And, for anyone interested, here is the statement from the speaker regarding the report (lol-I notice Craddock is absent
)
Statement from Alexis DeLee, Spokesperson for House Speaker, Tom Craddick.
"Since the membership has adopted the requirement for a record vote on 3rd reading, it is probable that members may vote for other members when they leave the floor to eat, meet with constituents or go to the restroom. Like many House rules dealing with the interactions between members, we leave the enforcement of the rules to the good judgment of the members. Members shouldn't be voting for members who aren't here, but if they do, everyone has the right to ask for a verification vote. A member may always lock their voting machine and take their key when they are off the floor so they may not be voted in their absence. When a verification is called and a member is not found, the House Sergeant's office locks their machine and takes their key. When strict enforcement is asked for by a house member, the Speaker allows each member time to get to their desk to vote."
Source:
Lawmakers Vote Multiple Times For Others - Austin's source for breaking news, weather and sportsCBS 42
flow and MW, I understand completely why America, particularly Texas, tends to evoke some negative responses right now, but that does not mean that there is nothing good here, nor that things can never be righted. There are people here keeping an eye out and working for good things. I am working for change, and I am not alone. But surely you knew that...as I have recently suggested to someone on another thread, boots and cowboy hats do not necessarily ignorance and a narrow mind make...
Love you guys....and the video is kind of hilarious...
InPeace,
InLove
, satisfaction brought 
